tom akerman explains. >> reporter: pedro left mexico for california more than 30 years ago, but whatows in his backyard still reminds him of his home. tending the same vineyards that sprouted a landmark in american labor history. ♪ >> reporter: lead by caesar chavez, filipino and hispanic farm workers walked off of their jobs in 1965 to demand better pay and health conditions from the growers. chavez's non-violent tactics gained him support through the first nationwide consumer boycott. but since chavez's death in 1993, alvarez and many others don't see the union offering them much help. >> translator: yes, the boss will pay a little more, but when you say it is not enough, he says well, you can go elsewhere. >> reporter: it is weakened by internal splits, competitions from rival unions, and a more hostile environment for organized labor across the u.s. >> workers are entitled to a 10-minute break every two hours paid for by the company; there will be additional shade, and cool drinking water provided. >> reporter: but it has far fewer employers under contract, and many workers have